One of the greatest threats to the safety of water supply in many years is approaching closer to our waters. The Dreissenid mussels” quagga and zebra now contaminate southern California waters and bordering states.
These invasive species multiply at tremendous rates, clog water supply lines, change lake ecology and increase occurrence of blue-green algae affecting taste and health.
So far, there is no known eradication method so treatment costs are on-going. There are probably few if any calvary left bringing grants and no new taxes is a common mantra, but this problem is still here to meet.
These mussels are primarily passengers on pleasure boats and once infected, the host waters will contaminate downstream users throughout the system.
Part of the problem in controlling boater use of our lake is that any discouragement to Lake County visitors could also dramatically affect the local economy.
In order to provide protection from invasive species and maintain a welcome mat for visitors the county has developed an inspection program consistent with state law.
The present inspection program is partly funded by boater fees paid at boat screening locations in local businesses. Additional boater fees are paid to qualified inspectors for high-risk boats.
Volunteer monitors at docks and launch ramps look for inspection stickers indicating compliance with the program.
Decontamination of problem boats is volunteer or catch-can by county staff. It is generally accepted that the program should be upgraded consistent with the high stakes and high risk.
Funding to improve the program is not available as all county budgets are in a reduced resource position and out-of-county funds are about as non-existent as it can get.
The beneficial uses of the lake are enjoyed by both visitors and residents. But the potential losses to resident users are permanent and extreme while visitors can avoid the trip.
The introduction of mussels can dramatically change property values, resort business and water consumption costs. It is important to review how we distribute the cost of protecting the lake while protecting the visitor base.
Jim Steele
Lake County
